Fragrant cake made from sweet bread

Rapid Dessert from Leftover Sweet Bread - A Profound Explosion of Flavors

Who hasn’t had leftover sweet bread from the holidays? Often, it ends up forgotten on the table, but today I will show you how to transform it into an original and delicious dessert that will surprise and delight everyone. This cake, made from sweet bread, is perfect for any season, especially in summer when you can enjoy it alongside a scoop of ice cream. With a bit of boldness and creativity, you can create a dessert that no one will refuse!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 70 minutes
Total time: 85 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Magical Ingredients

For the cake:
- 1 kg sweet bread with raisins/candied fruit/cocoa/nuts (avoid poppy seeds, as it is already very aromatic)
- 50 g milk chocolate (or more if you are a chocolate fan)
- 1 L milk
- 1 handful of raisins
- Rum essence (optional)
- 3-4 tablespoons of cinnamon (adjustable to taste)
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda + vinegar (to help aerate the mixture)

For the meringue:
- 2 egg whites
- 100 g sugar

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparing the Raisins: Start by placing the raisins in a bowl with warm water and rum essence, letting them swell for about 2 hours. This will add a subtle flavor and make them less dry in the cake.

2. Infusing the Flavors: In a large pot, bring the milk to a boil. Add the slices of sweet bread, chocolate, cinnamon, and drained raisins. Stir well to ensure that each slice of sweet bread absorbs the milk and flavors. Leave on the heat until the chocolate is completely melted and the sweet bread becomes soft.

3. Cooling the Mixture: Once the mixture has cooled, add the beaten eggs and stir until everything is well combined. The baking soda mixed with vinegar will reactivate aeration, giving the cake a fluffy texture.

4. Baking the Cake: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the sweet bread mixture. Bake for about an hour, or until the cake is well cooked and risen.

5. Preparing the Meringue: While the cake is in the oven, beat the egg whites with the sugar until you achieve a firm foam. Make sure the bowl is clean and free of grease, as this can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.

6. Finishing the Cake: Once the cake is nearly done, remove the tray from the oven and carefully spread the meringue over it. Put it back in the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden and crispy.

7. Cooling and Serving: After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool slightly. Use a wet knife to detach the meringue from the parchment paper.

Serving Suggestions and Combinations

This cake can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making it perfect for any time of the day. I recommend serving it with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, for a touch of freshness, you can add some seasonal fresh fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries.

Practical Tips

- Customizing Ingredients: You can replace the chocolate with cocoa or add nuts for a richer taste. Experiment with different types of sweet bread – those with fruity fillings will add extra flavor.
- Storing the Cake: If you manage to have leftover cake, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the taste will become even more intense.

Nutritional Benefits

This sweet bread cake is rich in carbohydrates, providing you with the energy needed for the whole day. Raisins add fiber and antioxidants, while chocolate contains beneficial flavonoids for the heart. However, it is best to consume it in moderation, considering the sugar and fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of bread instead of sweet bread?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of sweet bread, but sweet bread adds a unique texture and flavor.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe by using plant-based milk and replacing the eggs with a vegan binding agent, such as flaxseeds or bananas.

3. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the meringue or use dark chocolate, which is less sweet than milk chocolate.

Transform leftover sweet bread into a delicacy that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones! Enjoy!